Converse pulls ad after backlash over racist imagery

Converse removed an Instagram ad featuring K-pop star Karina after critics said lighting formed a KKK hood on her skirt and the sneaker pose evoked lynching. The Nike-owned brand apologized, saying the ad was removed from its channels and that it will improve ad vetting. The backlash included calls to fire staff and boycott the company, with some noting a broader pattern of racial sensitivity concerns in recent brand campaigns.